Artist Biography

Julian Opie is a renowned British contemporary artist known for his minimalist, stylised portraits, figures, and landscapes. A Goldsmiths graduate, he uses thick black outlines and simplified forms, often seen in public art, LED displays, and album covers, heavily influenced by signage and art history.

Julian Opie (b. 1958, London) is a defining figure of contemporary British art, celebrated for a style that strips the world down to its most essential lines. After graduating in 1982, he emerged as a standout talent in the New British Sculpture movement. While his early work focused on metal forms, he eventually pivoted toward a distinct, digital-inspired aesthetic that mimics the clarity of public signage.

Opie’s popularity lies in his ability to capture complex subjects – people, skyscrapers, or landscapes using minimalist outlines and flat colour fields. His portraits, famously featuring simple dots for eyes, achieved pop-culture status through his 2000 album cover for Blur. Beyond static canvases, he is a pioneer in using technology, often employing LED screens to depict “walking” figures that bring urban energy into gallery spaces. He continues to live and work in London, constantly evolving how we perceive the modern environment.

Julian Opie Artwork Consignment

We offer a bespoke consignment service where clients can sell their limited edition prints and originals to our collector base.

Please contact graeme@monikerprojects.com for further information.